Overview

The WhatsApp Settings section in openSIS allows institutions to configure WhatsApp communication services for sending messages directly through supported communication gateways.

Once configured, WhatsApp communication may be used for:

• Notifications
• Announcements
• Alerts and reminders
• Parent communication
• Administrative messaging

openSIS supports WhatsApp integration through providers such as:

• Twilio Gateway

Accessing WhatsApp Settings

To access WhatsApp configuration:

Settings > School Settings > Default Communication Settings

Open the:
WhatsApp tab

The WhatsApp settings screen allows administrators to configure communication provider credentials and verified sender information.

WhatsApp Configuration Fields

Provider

Defines the communication provider used for WhatsApp integration.

Example:

• Twilio Gateway

The selected provider determines the required authentication details.

Account SID

The Account SID is the unique account identifier provided by the communication service provider.

This credential is required for gateway authentication.

Auth Token

The Auth Token is the secure authentication key associated with the provider account.

This token authorizes communication requests sent from openSIS.

Administrators should keep this value secure and confidential.

WhatsApp From Number

The WhatsApp sender number used for communication.

This number must typically be:

• Registered
• Approved
• Verified

through the communication provider.

Example:
+14155238886

Test Number

The Test Number field is used to verify WhatsApp communication during setup.

This helps administrators confirm:

• Correct credentials
• Successful gateway integration
• Message delivery functionality

before enabling communication workflows institution wide.

Configuring WhatsApp Settings

To configure WhatsApp communication:

1. Navigate to:
   
   

   Settings > School Settings > Default Communication Settings
2. Open the:
   WhatsApp tab
3. Select the communication provider.
4. Enter:
   • Account SID
   • Auth Token
   • WhatsApp From Number
   • Test Number
5. Click Update

The WhatsApp gateway configuration will now be saved.

Verifying WhatsApp Configuration

After configuration:

• Send a test message if supported
• Verify message delivery to the test number
• Confirm that the sender number is verified correctly

If communication fails, review:

• Provider credentials
• Sender number approval
• Account permissions
• Provider setup requirements

Twilio WhatsApp Support

Twilio supports both:

• SMS communication
• WhatsApp communication

Institutions using Twilio may configure separate sender numbers for:

• SMS
• WhatsApp

depending on provider setup and verification requirements.

Security Recommendations

Communication credentials should only be accessible to authorized administrators.

Avoid:

• Sharing Auth Tokens publicly
• Using unverified sender numbers
• Storing credentials insecurely

Common WhatsApp Use Cases in openSIS

Institutions may use WhatsApp communication for:

• Parent alerts
• Student notifications
• Attendance communication
• Event reminders
• Emergency notices
• Administrative announcements

Best Practices

• Use verified WhatsApp sender numbers only.
• Test communication before production use.
• Keep gateway credentials secure.
• Review provider messaging limitations carefully.
• Validate communication workflows periodically.